Easy Creamy Cornbread Casserole

Get ready for the ultimate comfort food! This delightful cornbread casserole is incredibly easy to make, delivering a rich, creamy, and flavorful side dish that everyone will adore. With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this amazing cornbread bake perfect for family dinners, holiday feasts, or any casual gathering. It’s a versatile dish that shines year-round!

Delve into the fascinating origins of this staple dish by exploring the history of cornbread, a beloved part of American cuisine.

Why You’ll Love This Cornbread Casserole

• Effortless & Quick: This cornbread casserole recipe requires minimal prep, making it ideal for busy schedules.
• Rich & Creamy Texture: It boasts a wonderfully moist and tender crumb with a luscious, creamy consistency.
• Perfect Holiday Side: A fantastic addition to Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any celebratory meal spread.
• Family Favorite: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds of this comforting and delicious dish.
• Easy to Customize: Adapt it with your favorite add-ins to make it uniquely yours.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your next favorite side dish. This easy cornbread casserole comes together with pantry staples and fresh additions, ensuring a delicious result every time.

• 2 large eggs
• 1 cup sour cream
• ½ cup unsalted butter (melted)
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 8.5 ounce package cornbread mix (such as Jiffy)
• 15 ounce can whole corn kernels (drained)
• 15 ounce can creamed corn (or homemade)

Notes & Substitutions

For the best texture in your cornbread casserole, use a classic cornbread mix like Jiffy. Discover how sour cream enhances moisture and tenderness in baked goods, contributing to the casserole’s rich consistency. If you prefer, make homemade creamed corn for an extra touch. You can use fresh or frozen corn kernels, just thaw and drain them well before adding. Ensure your butter is melted but not hot, so it blends smoothly with other ingredients. Elevate this cornbread side dish with shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese, or add a little heat with diced jalapeños or green chiles.

Equipment

Having the right tools makes baking this easy cornbread casserole a breeze.

• 9×9-inch baking dish
• Nonstick cooking spray
• Large mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Toothpick or cake tester

Instructions

Creating this comforting cornbread casserole is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a perfectly baked dish that will impress everyone at your table. This amazing cornbread casserole will be ready in about an hour from start to finish.

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Thoroughly coat a 9×9-inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, sour cream, melted butter, and granulated sugar.
3. Whisk these wet ingredients until they are well combined and smooth, ensuring no lumps remain.
4. Add the entire package of cornbread mix to the wet ingredients.
5. Next, add the well-drained whole corn kernels and the creamed corn to the bowl.
6. Gently stir the mixture with a spoon or spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a tougher texture.
7. Pour the entire cornbread casserole mixture evenly into your prepared 9×9-inch baking dish.
8. Use the back of your spoon or a spatula to smooth the top of the mixture in the dish.
9. Bake the cornbread casserole for 55-60 minutes.
10. Check for doneness: the top should be golden brown, and a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center should come out clean.
11. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5 to 10 minutes on a wire rack. This allows it to set properly.
12. Slice your delicious cornbread casserole into squares and serve warm. Enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!

Pro Tips & Troubleshooting

• Prevent dry edges: Do not overbake your cornbread casserole. Start checking for doneness at 55 minutes.
• Ensure creaminess: Avoid excessive stirring once the dry ingredients are added; mix until just combined.
• Golden brown top: Monitor the casserole closely during the last 10 minutes of baking to achieve a perfect golden crust.
• To avoid a runny casserole: Always ensure your canned whole corn kernels are very well-drained.
• Adjusting sweetness: Reduce the granulated sugar to ½ tablespoon for a more savory cornbread casserole.
• Even baking: Use a 9×9-inch pan as specified for optimal heat distribution and consistent cooking.

Serving, Storage, & Variations

This versatile cornbread casserole is a fantastic addition to many meals. You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or use up ingredients you have on hand.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair this delightful cornbread bake with savory roasted meats like ham, turkey, or chicken.
• It’s an excellent sidekick for a hearty bowl of chili or any BBQ feast.
• Serve alongside other classic comfort food mains for a truly satisfying meal.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store any leftover cornbread casserole in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm individual servings in the microwave or reheat the whole dish in an oven at 300°F until heated through.
• Freezing: While the texture might change slightly, you can freeze cooled portions for 2-3 months in an airtight, freezer-safe container.
• Thawing: Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations

• Cheesy Cornbread Casserole: Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend cheese with the corn.
• Spicy Kick: Add ½ to 1 small can of diced jalapeños or green chiles (drained) to the mixture for some heat.
• Meaty Addition: Fold in ½ cup of cooked and crumbled bacon or cooked sausage for a heartier dish.
• Herbaceous: Mix in 1-2 tablespoons of fresh chopped chives or parsley for a burst of fresh flavor.
• Sweeter Touch: Drizzle a little honey or maple syrup over the top just before serving for an extra sweet note.

Nutrition

Enjoy this comforting cornbread casserole as part of a balanced meal.

Nutrition values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and exact ingredient measurements.

FAQ

• Can I prepare cornbread casserole ahead of time? Yes, you can mix the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Store it covered in the refrigerator and bake as directed.
• Can I use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw frozen corn completely and drain both fresh and frozen corn very well before adding them to the batter.
• How do I know when the casserole is done baking? Your delightful cornbread dish is ready when the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
• What can I substitute for sour cream? Plain Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for sour cream, offering a similar tang and moisture.
• Is this cornbread casserole sweet or savory? This recipe has a balanced touch of sweetness. You can adjust the sugar to make it more savory if preferred.

Conclusion

This easy creamy cornbread casserole is truly a game-changer for anyone seeking a delicious, no-fuss side dish. Its incredible flavor and simple preparation make it a perfect addition to any meal, from weeknight dinners to special occasions. We hope you love making and sharing this comforting comfort food casserole with your loved ones. Give it a try, and let us know what you think in the comments below!